Your four-legged pal is your best friend, and you love having them by your side, but that’s tough to do when they have rancid breath. If your furry friend’s breath could knock you over as they come close for a cuddle—or worse, a slobbery kiss—they likely have periodontal disease. Read our Tender Touch Animal Hospital team’s guide to learn how to battle this insidious condition and keep your pet’s mouth fresh and clean.

Periodontal disease development in pets

Periodontal disease in pets is a common and serious dental condition that affects the structures supporting the teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and jawbone. The condition is caused by a sticky film of bacteria (i.e., plaque) on the teeth. If not properly addressed, plaque can mineralize into tartar (i.e., dental calculus), which can lead to gingivitis and progress to periodontitis. Learn how periodontal disease typically progresses in pets:

  • Plaque formation — A pet’s mouth naturally harbors bacteria. When these bacteria combine with saliva and food particles, they form soft, sticky plaque on the teeth.
  • Tartar formation — If plaque is not removed through regular brushing or chewing, it can mineralize and harden into tartar. Tartar is difficult to remove and provides a surface on which plaque can continue to accumulate.
  • Gingivitis — Plaque and tartar can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation (i.e., gingivitis). This can cause gums to become red, swell, and bleed, but at this stage, the damage is reversible with proper dental care.
  • Periodontitis — If gingivitis is left untreated, the inflammation can progress to periodontitis, a severe periodontal disease stage. In periodontitis, the inflammation extends deep into the teeth’s supporting structures, including the ligaments and jawbone. This can result in the loss of tooth-supporting structures, leading to loose or missing teeth.

Periodontal disease in pets can be painful and negatively impact their overall health. The bacteria associated with periodontitis can enter the bloodstream and potentially contribute to systemic health issues, affecting organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Periodontal disease signs in pets

Detecting periodontal disease in pets is crucial for maintaining their overall health. By checking your pet’s mouth regularly, such as through toothbrushing, you can spot early stage periodontal disease and ensure your furry pal receives the veterinary care they need to prevent unnecessary pain and infection. Keep an eye out for the following signs:

  • Foul breath — If your pet’s breath could be described as less than fresh or downright foul, bacteria has likely built up in their mouth.
  • Swollen, inflamed, or bleeding gums — Healthy gums should be a bubblegum pink. If your pet’s gums are red, swollen, or bleeding, they likely have gum disease.
  • Plaque and tartar buildup — Check your pet’s teeth regularly for the presence of yellow or brown plaque and tartar, as bacteria-laden plaque is the culprit behind periodontal disease. 
  • Gum recession — In the advanced periodontal disease stages, your pet’s gums may begin to recede, exposing more of the tooth or its roots. Gum recession can loosen teeth and cause them to fall out. In addition, your pet will feel increased discomfort when eating. 
  • Difficulty eating — A pet may start avoiding hard food or show discomfort signs while eating if they’re experiencing dental pain. Eating difficulties lead to appetite and weight loss.
  • Excessive drooling — While some drooling is normal for certain breeds, increased saliva production or blood-tinged saliva can be an oral disease sign.
  • Pawing at the mouth or face — If your pet is frequently pawing at their mouth or face, it could be an attempt to alleviate pain or irritation caused by dental issues.
  • Loose or missing teeth — Dental disease can lead to loose teeth and cause them to fall out. Check your pet’s mouth regularly for changes in their dental structure that can indicate untreated periodontal disease.
  • Behavior changes — Pets in pain may exhibit behavior changes. If your normally happy and playful pet becomes irritable, withdrawn, or reluctant to be touched around the head and mouth, they may have dental disease.
  • Nasal discharge or sneezing — Dental issues can sometimes lead to respiratory problems. If your pet is experiencing nasal discharge or sneezing, their oral health may be poor.

Periodontal disease treatment and prevention in pets 

Preventing and managing periodontal disease in pets involves regular dental care, including brushing their teeth, providing dental-friendly treats and chews, and scheduling professional dental cleanings with our Tender Touch Animal Hospital team. Early disease detection and intervention are key to maintaining good oral health and preventing periodontal disease progression in your four-legged friend. Ensure you schedule regular veterinary visits with our team. During wellness visits, we perform a thorough oral exam to identify and address any of your pet’s dental issues before they become severe.
Periodontal disease can cause your four-legged friend severe pain and illness, so at an oral issue’s first sign, schedule your pet’s appointment with our Tender Touch Animal Hospital team.